Our Department developed PVDx2031 in collaboration with local artists and arts organizations throughout 2020, a year with unforeseen yet necessary sociopolitical pivots. Engaging a cultural planning process during the COVID-19 pandemic shutdowns and in the context of the Black Lives Matter movement was both challenging and fortuitous. We could not shy away from this place that made us; we could not think about climate change, nor its effects on the health and well-being of our communities, as separate threads. We also had to honor that cultural workers are uniquely capable of recognizing and addressing social damage in times of crisis and of transforming our awareness into concrete strategies that will help foment healing, repair, and resilience.

ACT has already started implementing parts of the Plan by supporting teaching artists in new and innovative ways, funding Providence’s creative nonprofits to rebound and rebuild, laying the groundwork for making changes in the commemorative landscape, and working towards implementing new ways to support our gig workers and the City’s life at night.

This year’s Pell Lecture will celebrate the work of our office and community in developing this path forward.

We look forward to seeing you in March!

Schedule:

9:30: Check-in
10:00 am-12:00pm: Keynote & Speaking Event
12:00 pm- 1:30 pm: Lunch (provided)
1:30 pm – 4:00 pm: Workshop Sessions

The Department of Art, Culture + Tourism (ACT)

Link to Plan: PVDx2031: Cultural Plan for Culture Shift